Job description
NexPack Innovations is a premium packaging solutions leader delivering sustainable, high-performance packaging for global brands. We are seeking a Product Packaging Lead to drive development from concept through production for a diverse portfolio. The ideal candidate blends design thinking, engineering rigor, and strong supplier partnerships to deliver packaging that protects products, reduces waste, and elevates brand stories.
Location: Chicago, IL. This is a full-time role with competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for growth.
Responsibility
- Lead end-to-end packaging development from concept to production-ready designs across multiple product lines.
- Collaborate with brand, design, engineering, and supply chain teams to define specifications, materials, and performance criteria.
- Own supplier selection, prototyping, testing, and validation activities including drop, transit, and shelf-life tests.
- Develop sustainable packaging strategies driving material selection, recyclability, and cost reduction targets.
- Create and manage design for manufacturability (DFM) guidelines and packaging standards.
- Coordinate with manufacturing sites to scale up production, resolve line issues, and ensure quality control.
- Maintain documentation for BOMs, specs, change controls, and regulatory compliance.
Qualification
- Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a related discipline.
- 5+ years of packaging development experience in consumer goods, with a track record of bringing products from concept to shelf.
- Deep knowledge of materials, packaging formats, printing, and converting processes; familiarity with sustainability targets.
- Proficient in CAD/3D modeling and packaging optimization tools; experience with DFMs and testing methods.
- Strong project management, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management with ability to influence at all levels and with suppliers.
- Knowledge of regulatory guidelines and safety standards; willingness to travel up to 20%.